Air Fryer Hot Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe

Take this basic chicken wings recipe and kick it up a notch by basting them with buffalo sauce! These air fryer buffalo wings are super simple to make with just 4 ingredients. They really do taste amazing!

Air Fryer Hot Wings

If you’ve been around for a while now, you all know how much I love my chicken wings. I love them plain, seasoned with garlic and parmesan- even dipped in some sweet and spicy chili sauce.

But, my favorite way to eat chicken wings is tossed in some delicious buffalo sauce. So yummy!

These air fryer buffalo wings are really amazing! All you need to make this recipe is chicken wings, buffalo sauce (bottled or homemade), and some salt and pepper seasoning. Cooking them in the air fryer leaves you with perfectly roasted chicken wings!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Buffalo Wings:

• Chicken Wings – The star of the dish. Use fresh or thawed wings for the best results. These wings will get crispy and delicious in the air fryer, perfect for holding onto that Buffalo sauce.
• Olive Oil – A small amount of olive oil helps the wings crisp up in the air fryer without the need for deep frying. It also helps the seasoning adhere to the wings.
• Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings to enhance the natural flavor of the chicken. These simple ingredients are essential for well-seasoned wings.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a subtle garlic flavor that complements the tanginess of the Buffalo sauce. This gives the wings an extra layer of deliciousness.
• Buffalo Sauce – The key ingredient that gives these wings their signature flavor. Buffalo sauce is a tangy, spicy blend of hot sauce and butter, perfect for coating the crispy wings.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Buffalo Wings:

• Air Fryer – The essential tool for this recipe. The air fryer cooks the wings quickly and evenly, giving them a crispy texture without the need for deep frying.
• Tongs – Useful for flipping the wings halfway through cooking and for tossing them in the Buffalo sauce. Tongs make it easy to handle the hot wings without burning yourself.
• Large Mixing Bowl – Perfect for tossing the cooked wings in the Buffalo sauce. A large bowl allows you to coat the wings evenly with the sauce.
• Measuring Spoons – Needed for accurately measuring the seasonings and oil. This ensures that the wings are properly seasoned and flavorful.
• Paper Towels – Important for patting the wings dry before cooking. Removing excess moisture helps the wings become crispier in the air fryer.

How To Make Buffalo Chicken Wings In The Air Fryer

Before you start cooking anything, make sure to spray the air fryer basket with a non-stick cooking spray of your choice (or use the oil sprayer bottle or brush the bottom of the basket with olive oil).

Then, take the chicken wings and lay them out into a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Cook the wings in the air fryer at 390F for 10 minutes for thawed chicken wings (or 15 minutes for frozen chicken wings).

Once the first round of cooking is done, remove the basket from the air fryer. Sprinkle the wings with salt and pepper on top and brush the top side with buffalo sauce.

Place the basket back into the air fryer and cook at 390F for another 5 minutes.

Remove the basket from the air fryer again and flip the chicken wings over. Sprinkle this side with salt and pepper and brush with buffalo sauce.

Return the basket to the air fryer once more and cook at 390F for 5 minutes till the wings are golden brown.

Remove the buffalo wings from the air fryer and serve with additional buffalo sauce for dipping.

Enjoy!

Cooking Tips:

• If you’d like to make your own buffalo sauce from scratch, check out my easy homemade buffalo sauce recipe!
• Don’t like buffalo sauce? Make a batch of this Instant Pot barbeque sauce and use it to make barbeque chicken wings instead.

What To Serve With Air-Fried Buffalo Wings

Buffalo chicken wings + “fried” french fries= the best dinner ever! I love to dip my fries in some of the leftover buffalo sauce and it really is just a comforting wholesome dinner. Add a favorite movie or sports game and we have a winner!

Besides french fries, I also like to serve carrots and celery along with some ranch or bleu cheese for a bite of freshness.

You can also serve these buffalo wings with a fresh side salad or with:

• Sweet Potato Fries
• Air Fryer Cabbage Wedges
• Cowboy Caviar
• Crispy Tater Tots

Looking for a low-carb option? Consider serving these keto-friendly zucchini fries and bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers with these wings for a delicious low-carb dinner!

Variations And Substitutions:

One of the great things about making Air Fryer Buffalo Wings is how versatile the recipe can be. Whether you’re looking to cater to different taste preferences or dietary needs, there are plenty of variations and substitutions you can explore.

• Different Sauces: While Buffalo sauce is a classic, you can easily switch it out for other types of sauces to change the flavor profile. For a milder option, consider using barbecue sauce or honey mustard. If you’re a fan of spicy food but want to try something different, Sriracha or a spicy garlic sauce could be great alternatives. For a unique twist, try an Asian-inspired sauce like teriyaki or a sweet chili glaze.
• Dry Rub Variations: If you prefer a less messy option, you can skip the sauce entirely and opt for a dry rub instead. A simple mixture of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper can give your wings a flavorful kick without the need for sauce. You can also experiment with different spice blends, such as Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, or even a simple salt and pepper rub.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the Buffalo sauce or any other sauce you choose does not contain gluten. Many store-bought sauces are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always a good idea to double-check the label. Additionally, if you’re using any seasoning mixes, make sure they are gluten-free as well.
• Keto-Friendly Wings: These wings are already low in carbs, making them suitable for a keto diet. However, if you’re strictly following keto guidelines, make sure to use a sauce that doesn’t contain added sugars. You can make your own Buffalo sauce using hot sauce and butter, or choose a sugar-free barbecue sauce as an alternative.
• Vegan or Vegetarian Option: While traditional Buffalo wings are made with chicken, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit a vegan or vegetarian diet. Substitute the chicken wings with cauliflower florets for Buffalo cauliflower wings. Simply coat the cauliflower in a bit of oil and seasoning, then cook them in the air fryer just like the wings. Toss them in your favorite vegan Buffalo sauce for a tasty and satisfying alternative.
• Lower Sodium Option: If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can reduce the amount of salt used in the seasoning or opt for a low-sodium Buffalo sauce. Many sauces on the market now offer reduced-sodium versions that still pack a punch of flavor. Additionally, you can experiment with salt-free seasoning blends to keep the flavor without the extra sodium.
• Different Cooking Methods: While the air fryer is the easiest and quickest way to make these wings, you can also bake them in the oven if you don’t have an air fryer. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F, place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and cook for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through. The result will still be crispy wings, though the cooking time will be longer than in the air fryer.

These variations and substitutions make it easy to customize the recipe to fit your specific needs and preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy delicious, crispy wings regardless of their dietary restrictions or taste preferences.

Storage and Reheating:

Properly storing and reheating your Air Fryer Buffalo Wings is key to maintaining their delicious flavor and crispy texture.

• Storage: If you have leftover wings, let them cool to room temperature before storing. Place the wings in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To prevent the wings from becoming soggy, it’s best to store them without the Buffalo sauce and add the sauce just before reheating.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the wings. Arrange the cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the wings to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Again, it’s ideal to freeze the wings without the sauce to maintain their texture.
• Reheating in the Air Fryer: The best way to reheat your wings and keep them crispy is to use the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the wings are hot and crispy. If you stored the wings without sauce, toss them in the Buffalo sauce after reheating.
• Reheating in the Oven: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also reheat the wings in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy. This method works well for larger batches of wings.
• Microwave Reheating: While you can reheat wings in the microwave, it’s not the best option as it can make the wings soggy. If you must use the microwave, place the wings on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. To crisp them up, you can pop them into the air fryer or oven for a few minutes after microwaving.
• Reheating from Frozen: If you’re reheating wings directly from the freezer, there’s no need to thaw them first. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook the frozen wings for 10-15 minutes, or until fully heated and crispy. In the oven, reheat at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. If the wings are not already sauced, toss them in Buffalo sauce after reheating.

Following these storage and reheating tips will ensure that your leftover Buffalo wings remain as tasty and crispy as when they were freshly made.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make these wings in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the wings in advance. Cook the wings in the air fryer as directed, but don’t toss them in the sauce. Once cooked, allow the wings to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the wings in the air fryer or oven, and then toss them in the Buffalo sauce right before serving to maintain their crispiness.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still make delicious Buffalo wings using your oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F and place the seasoned wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through. The result will be crispy wings, although the cooking time is longer than in the air fryer.

How can I make these wings spicier?

To make the wings spicier, you can either increase the amount of Buffalo sauce or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the Buffalo sauce mixture. Additionally, you can sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder on the wings before cooking. Adjust the spice level to your taste preference.

Are these wings keto-friendly?

Yes, these wings are keto-friendly as they are low in carbs. Just make sure to use a Buffalo sauce that doesn’t contain added sugars. You can also make your own sauce by combining hot sauce with melted butter, ensuring it fits within your keto guidelines.

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, you can use frozen wings, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Cook the frozen wings in the air fryer at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. It’s not necessary to thaw the wings first, but if you do, the cooking time will be reduced to about 20 minutes. Remember to season the wings before cooking.

What sides go well with Buffalo wings?

Buffalo wings pair well with a variety of sides. The classic combination includes celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing. You can also serve them with fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing them with baked potatoes or macaroni and cheese.

How do I keep the wings crispy if I’m serving them at a party?

To keep the wings crispy for a party, avoid tossing them in the sauce until just before serving. You can keep the wings warm in the oven set to a low temperature (around 200°F) until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to serve, quickly toss them in the Buffalo sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Can I make a large batch and freeze them?

Absolutely! After cooking the wings, let them cool completely, then freeze them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer the wings to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat the wings in

More Air Fryer Recipes

If you loved this recipe for air ‘fried’ buffalo chicken wings, check out some of my other air fryer recipes!

These are some other recipes I love to make:

• Air Fryer Frozen Pizza
• Frozen Chicken Nuggets In The Air Fryer
• Air Fryer Boneless Pork Chops
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs In The Air Fryer
• Air Fryer Frozen Seafood Medley
• Breaded Chicken Tenders In The Air Fryer

See also:

• Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
• Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Wings
• Air Fryer Cornish Hens